R.J.
My nanny insisted I use chopsticks from the time I started eating solids. My mum said it was HILARIOUS, because I would try and try to eat my asagohan in the morning and it would takes ages just one grain of rice at a time, then I'd get frustrated, grab a handful and shove it in, and then my nanny would patiently redirect me to go back to my chopsticks. (We're not japanese, but we lived in japan).
With my own son, I always provided silverware or chopsticks, but he used them sporadically. I think by 2ish he was using them MOST of the time. Like the PP, my kiddo *hated* being fed. I think I've fed him in total fewer than 5 times. He was always a very "do it myself" kind of child.
For soup, I'd just separate it. The solids would go on his tray or plate, and the liquid would go in a sippy cup.